HANCOCK COUNTY, Ohio — Heather Paul credits Hancock Public Health and its mobile clinic for getting her health back on track.
The staff assisted Paul, bringing the mobile clinic and care to her. She said she was having a tough time with mental health, but the mobile clinic encouraged her to take care of herself in a non-judgmental way.
She finally felt her concerns were being heard.
"Just be honest," Paul said. "Reach out and tell them how low you are, and how hurt."
The mobile clinic travels around Hancock County, helping those who don't have immediate access to healthcare.
Director of Nursing Laura Reinhart focuses on six main areas of concern for women: being a caregiver, providing healthcare to women with disabilities, reproductive and sexual health, possible partner violence and medication awareness.
"We have to take care of ourselves first and make sure that we are healthy," Reinhart said. "Because we can prevent so much from taking these simple steps every year."
Reinhart said she often asks her patients what's important to them. Many say family, friends, and loved ones. But, she reminds them that in order to take care of others, they have to take care of themselves first.
"Well if these things are so important to you, then you have to take care of yourself first to make sure you can be there for them," Reinhart said.
Health has come full circle for Paul. Now, she wants to care for others in the same way someone cared for her.
"I'm looking into becoming a peer support," Paul said. "In the long run, I mean, just the little things can save your life."